Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

white-elephant

noun

/ˈwaɪt ˈɛlɪfənt/

Definition

A white elephant is a possession that is more trouble than it is worth; a burdensome or costly item that is difficult to maintain but cannot be easily disposed of.

Examples

After inheriting his grandfather’s huge house, he realized it had become a white elephant, too expensive and large for his needs.
The town’s annual festival had turned into a white elephant, with rising costs and declining participation.

Meaning

The term originates from the ancient practice in Southeast Asia of gifting a rare and sacred white elephant, which, while valuable, was costly to keep. It now refers to any situation or possession that requires significant upkeep.